Factors Affecting Coast Guard SAR Unit Visual Detection Performance.
Abstract
This Center has conducted seven visual detection experiments designed to develop visual detection models which will be incorporated into the Coast Guard's computer-assisted search planning (CASP) system and the National Search and Rescue (SAR) Manual. These were controlled experiments involving 82/95/210-foot cutters, 41/44-foot boats, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft searching for 16- and 41-foot boat, life raft, and person-in-the-water (PIW) targets anchored at predetermined locations within the search area. Through a microwave tracking system, searcher and target positions could be accurately reconstructed to determine the lateral range of targets that were detected, as well as not detected. Thus, probability of detection versus lateral range curves could be developed and, by integrating these curves, sweep width could also be determined. A total of 4,916 detection opportunities was generated. A sophisticated binary multi-variate regression computer program was used to develop sweep width estimates for the environmental conditions experienced. Based upon the results of these experiments, changes in the search planning guidance of the SAR Manual and revisions to CASP are recommended.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA112995
Entities
People
- G. L. Hover
- N. C. Edwards Jr.
- S. R. Osmer
- T. J. Mazour